“The goal of the Kentucky Automotive Industry Association is to create a
unified voice for an industry sector that is profoundly important to our
state’s economic health and growth,” said Gov. Beshear. “The association will
play a vital role in addressing the challenges, solutions and opportunities
facing the industry. It will also allow us to highlight successes and elevate
the state’s contributions to the global automotive industry.”

For the first time, these groups can work in concert with each other,
creating a forum to share best practices and encourage meaningful dialogue and
action. The association will take a leading role in creating collaborative
partnerships that will advance the auto industry now and in the future.

A 12-member inaugural board of directors, consisting of
industry and government leaders, will develop the association and set its
strategic goals and activities. Larry Hayes, secretary of the Cabinet for
Economic Development, has agreed to serve as the inaugural chairman.

“Recognizing the widespread impact
of the automotive industry in our state, we sought to create a platform that
will further strengthen our position as a leader in the global marketplace,”
said Hayes. “The Kentucky Automotive Industry Association was formed
hand-in-hand with Kentucky’s auto manufacturers and suppliers. It’s a
partnership that I have no doubt will create an environment in which we’ll see
tangible results and continued growth for Kentucky’s economy.”

With more than 1.2 million vehicles produced in 2013,
Kentucky ranks third overall in light vehicle production and first per capita.
Kentucky’s 460 motor vehicle-related establishments employ nearly 82,000
people. In the past five years, nearly 300 motor vehicle-related projects have
been announced statewide, representing more than 17,600 new jobs and $4 billion
in new investment. Kentucky’s motor vehicle exports reached a record $5.5
billion last year.

Information on Kentucky’s economic
development efforts and programs is available at www.ThinkKentucky.com.Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can
also join the discussion on Facebook
or follow on Twitter. Watch
the Cabinet’s “This is My Kentucky” video on YouTube.